PRIME MINISTER REAFFIRMS GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO TEACHERS
Friday 5 September 2025, Honiara – Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to teachers and the education sector during a press conference held on Wednesday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the Master Agreement signed on 29 August 2025 between the Government and the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA), which addressed seven key demands raised by teachers. He noted that the agreement provides a framework for employment security, salary back-pay, allowances, and recognition of teachers in Early Childhood Education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and for those working with children with disabilities.
Prime Minister Manele emphasised that the implementation of the agreement will be phased and carefully managed to ensure both financial sustainability and administrative soundness.
“As someone who was once a teacher myself, I deeply understand the challenges and sacrifices that teachers face every day. Your role is not only to educate but also to shape the future of our nation. I want to sincerely thank all teachers across our country for your patience, your understanding, and your continued commitment during this negotiation process,” the Prime Minister said.
He thanked the Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr. Melchior Mataki; Permanent Secretary for Education, Dr. Franco Rodie; Chief of Staff, Mr. Douglas Ete; and the General Secretary and Interim President of SINTA, Mr. Robert Lafisi and Mr. Frank Robolite’e, together with their respective teams, for their constructive engagement throughout the negotiation process.
The Prime Minister reiterated that teachers are at the heart of the nation’s development and that the Government remains committed to partnership as it continues to invest in the future of Solomon Islands’ children.
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